Javier Garcia Martinez's Reflections on his IUPAC Presidency

Javier Garcia Martinez, the departing IUPAC President, reflected on the progress made during his term, emphasizing the Union’s evolution to meet today’s challenges and the support of the community. Since his Vice Presidency in 2019, a strategic process of reimagining the future of the organization has strengthened IUPAC’s responsiveness and efficiency, with dynamic engagement from the Science and Executive Boards, to quickly react to a complex, interconnected, and rapidly changing reality. Integrating the International Younger Chemists Network (IYCN) has enhanced IUPAC’s dynamism and global outreach. Initiatives like the Global Women’s Breakfast, the Top Ten Emerging Technologies, and the Periodic Table Challenge increased IUPAC’s visibility and promoted a positive perception of chemistry worldwide.

Highlighting a steadfast commitment to sustainability, IUPAC collaborated with UNESCO and other global bodies, leveraging initiatives like the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development and the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (IDSSD). Education remains central, with IUPAC pioneering System Thinking in global chemistry education, linking molecular concepts with societal and environmental challenges and encouraging students to explore these complex interconnections.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of volunteers and the Secretariat for IUPAC, Javier Garcia Martinez praised their impressive work and contributions. Areas for improvement include improved communication and financial stability.

Javier Garcia Martinez’ efforts focused on enhancing IUPAC’s global presence, forging alliances, and fostering community cohesion while securing external funding. He established the NAO Forum, a platform to facilitate the exchange of ideas with members, and the Presidents’ Forum, the meeting of all presidents of chemical societies and federations during the General Assembly, and represented IUPAC in over 30 scientific gatherings worldwide. Symbolizing his commitment to the chemistry community, all travel was at no cost to IUPAC.